We must finally stop appealing to theology to justify our reserved silence about what the State is doing — for that is nothing but fear. ‘Open your mouth for the one who is voiceless’ — for who in the church today still remembers that that is the least of the Bible’s demands in times such as these?

This, then, is the aim of the Liturgy: that we should return to the world with the doors of our perceptions cleansed. We should return to the world after the Liturgy, seeing Christ in every human person, especially in those who suffer.

Many may be wondering why I am weighing in on discussions about the recent election. It is our responsibility as concerned citizens to ensure that ALL fellow humans will continue to live in freedom and the pursuit of happiness. Hence we must speak up. This is our American civic duty. – It is my responsibility and calling as a minister to point out to demagogues who are oppositional to the core christian values of inclusiveness, equality, freedom of choice, hospitality, respect for differences, compassion and love. These are the values with which God treats us, and we should not do otherwise. – Be reminded of the example by St. John the Baptist (and many other Saints), who did exactly the same I do, and hence such is our inspiration and duty.